Where to stay in Pamplona for Running of the Bulls – Top Picks
Where to stay for running of the bulls in Pamplona
When it comes to Running of the Bulls, location is key. You want to be close enough to the action to fully immerse yourself in the festival, but not so close that you can’t get a good night’s sleep. The best areas to stay in Pamplona for the festival are the Casco Antiguo (Old Town) and the Ensanche (Expansion District).
The Casco Antiguo is the historic heart of Pamplona. This is where you’ll find the famous Plaza del Castillo, as well as many bars, restaurants, and shops. The Ensanche is a newer district, but it’s still close to the action and has plenty of accommodation options.
Best Hotels for Running of the Bulls
Pamplona has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there’s something for everyone.
Luxury Hotels in Pamplona
For those who want to experience Running of the Bulls in style, Pamplona has a range of luxury hotels to choose from. Some of the best options include:
Hotel Alma Pamplona
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 9.1 | Stars: 5
Hotel Alma Pamplona is a modern and stylish 4-star hotel located in the suburbs of Pamplona. The decor here is sleek and futuristic, with your fingerprint being used as a room key on check in.
You’ll find spacious and comfortable rooms with contemporary decor and amenities. Many have views of the San Cristobal Mountain and a slate terrace to enjoy it from. Expect sleek, design furniture with textures of wood, marble and leather. The bathrooms are huge, with both a bathtub and a rainfall shower, stocked with luxury toiletries.
Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner. There’s also a bar on-site where guests can relax with a drink.
The hotel offers a spa and wellness center, featuring a sauna, hot tub, and Turkish bath, as well as an outdoor pool. You can also ask staff for a kayak to take down the neighbouring river.
Although it’s a bit farther from the city center, the hotel is still within walking distance of Pamplona’s main attractions, including the Bullring and the Casco Antiguo. Hotel Alma Pamplona is a great choice for those looking for a modern and stylish hotel with spa facilities.
Gran Hotel La Perla
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 9.3 | Stars: 5
Gran Hotel La Perla is a historic 5-star hotel located in the heart of Pamplona’s Casco Antiguo. The hotel has a rich history, having hosted famous guests such as Ernest Hemingway during the Running of the Bulls. There’s been an effort to incorporate historical features into the design, through chandeliers and wood accents.
The hotel has luxurious rooms with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and air conditioning. They are spacious, and named after famous guests. Bathrooms are modern and you’ll get an extensive range of toiletries, including face masks and shaving cream.
Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner. Expect local fare – roast cod, soups, salads and local sausages.
The hotel’s rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city and is the perfect place to relax with a drink. Other amenities include a fitness center, sauna, and a library. Gran Hotel La Perla is a great choice for those looking for a luxurious and historic hotel in the heart of Pamplona.
Mid-Range Hotels in Pamplona
If you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable option, Pamplona has plenty of mid-range hotels to choose from. Some of the best options include:
Hotel Tres Reyes
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 8.7 | Stars: 4
Hotel Tres Reyes is a luxury 4-star hotel located in the heart of Pamplona. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Bullring and the famous Plaza del Castillo, and provides an oasis of Calm in the bustling Old Quarter.
The hotel has spacious and elegant rooms with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars, and air conditioning.
Enjoy a buffet breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner.
The hotel’s bar and terrace offer stunning views of the city. Other amenities include a fitness center, sauna, and outdoor pool. The grass will be full of sunbathers on warmer days, and the poolside areas often host music nights.
Hotel Tres Reyes is an ideal choice for those looking for a luxury hotel in a central location.
Hotel Blanca de Navarra
Price: ££ | Hotel rating: 8.3 | Stars: 4
Hotel Blanca de Navarra is a modern and stylish 3-star hotel located in the suburbs of Pamplona. They have spacious and comfortable rooms with contemporary decor and amenities. Enjoy a buffet breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, which also serves lunch and dinner.
There’s also a bar on-site where guests can relax with a drink. The hotel offers free parking for guests, making it a great choice for those arriving by car. Although it’s a bit farther from the city center, the hotel is still within walking distance of Pamplona’s main attractions, including the Bullring and the Casco Antiguo.
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Pamplona
For those on a tight budget, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options in Pamplona. Some of the best options include:
Hostal Espoz y Mina
Price: £ | Hotel rating: 8.5 | Stars: 3
Hostal Espoz y Mina is a popular accommodation option in the heart of Pamplona’s Casco Antiguo (Old Town). The hostel offers comfortable and clean rooms, some with balconies overlooking the streets of the Old Town. You can enjoy a continental breakfast in the hostel’s dining room, and there’s also a shared kitchen. The hostel is a few minutes’ walk from the Bullring and the famous Plaza del Castillo. It’s in an ideal location for those attending Running of the Bulls.
Sercotel Europa
Price: £ | Hotel rating: 8.4
Sercotel Europa is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of Pamplona, a few minutes’ walk from the Bullring and the Casco Antiguo. The hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms, many of which have balconies with views of the city. Enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning in the hotel’s dining room, and there’s also a restaurant and bar on-site for those who want to dine in. Other amenities include a fitness center and a sauna. Sercotel Europa is a great choice for those looking for a mid-range hotel in a central location.
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Pamplona
Booking accommodation during Running of the Bulls can be a challenge, but with a little planning, it’s possible to find the perfect place to stay. Here are some tips to help you book your accommodation in Pamplona:
Book early: Accommodation in Pamplona fills up quickly during Running of the Bulls. It’s important to book your accommodation well in advance. Many hotels start taking bookings up to a year before the festival, so be sure to plan ahead.
Consider your budget: There’s a range of accommodation options in Pamplona, so consider your budget when booking. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel. If you’re willing to spend a little more, consider a mid-range or luxury hotel.
Look for accommodation close to the action: As mentioned earlier, location is key during Running of the Bulls. Look for accommodation that’s close to the Bullring or the Casco Antiguo to ensure you’re in the heart of the festival.
Check for festival packages: Some hotels offer festival packages that include accommodation, breakfast, and even tickets to the Bullring. These packages can be a great way to save money and ensure you have a hassle-free festival experience.
Where to Stay in Pamplona for Running of the Bulls FAQs
Some of our favourite hotels in Pamplona are Gran Hotel La Perla and Hotel Tres Reyes.
The Running of the Bulls takes place on an 800 yard stretch of closed off streets in downtown Pamplona. They are released south of the Arga river and they run down the Cuesta de Santo Domingo and the Calle de la Estafeta until the reach the Plaza de Toros.
We would recommend staying in Pamplona for a couple of days – one to enjoy the running of the bulls and another to enjoy the city at least.
Pamplona is an incredible city that comes alive during Running of the Bulls. With so many accommodation options to choose from, it’s important to do your research and book early to ensure you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, there’s something for everyone in Pamplona. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Running of the Bulls today!
